General Canon law says that all Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence from meat. Good Friday and Ash Wednesday are the major
days for fasting and abstinence from meat.
In summary, Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. In addition, all Catholics 14 years old and older must abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent. Fasting as explained by the U.S. bishops means partaking of only one full meal.
Some food (not equaling another full meal) is permitted at breakfast and around midday or in the evening—depending on when a
person chooses to eat the main or full meal. Abstinence forbids the use of meat, but not of eggs, milk products or condiments made of animal fat. Abstinence does not include meat juices and liquid foods made from meat. Thus, such foods as chicken broth, consomme, soups cooked or flavored with meat, meat gravies or sauces, as well as seasonings or condiments made from animal fat are not forbidden. Clearly, soups with meat particles may not be served.
Also, it is permissible to use margarine and lard. Office of Worship/Lenten Fasting Regulations/ 2012, for more information
visit www.cathdal.org
Check with your parish for times for the diocesan-wide Sacrament of Reconciliation on March 20 and March 27 during “The Light is On for You” campaign. Additional information found at Cathdal.org
